Buprenorphine treatment is one approach to the treatment of drug abuse, especially for opioid dependence. Buprenorphine is a partial opioid receptor agonist that helps to reduce the effects of opioids on the brain and reduce the desire to use the substance. This drug has significant analgesic effects and its effects on the body are very similar to those of morphine.
Since the end of the 20th century, the drug has been actively used in the treatment of opioid addiction to relieve withdrawal. However, it soon became clear that it is addictive and buprenorphine itself can cause the development of drug dependence.
Dependence on buprenorphine can occur if it is misused or abused. Monitoring the patient’s condition and observing the emerging symptoms of drug dependence will help to determine if there is a problem. Some of the most common signs of the disease include:
- development of tolerance to buprenorphine, which may lead to an increase in dose to achieve the desired effect;
- a constant desire to use the drug to avoid unpleasant withdrawal symptoms or to get a euphoric effect;
- appearance of pain, nausea, vomiting, dizziness when the drug is cancelled;
- strong psychological dependence, causing inadequate reactions to the actions of others, aggression, anger, depression, irritability.
The visible symptoms of drug dependence also include a significant decrease in sensitivity to pain, incoherent speech, and a desire for silence. The function of respiratory organs is disturbed, pupils are narrowed, skin becomes pale. There is a decrease in blood pressure. The drug is administered by injection, the marks from which remain on the body. The presence of the drug in the body can be determined by urinalysis.
Like any other type of drug addiction, buprenorphine addiction manifests itself both physically and psychologically. The addict changes in appearance, behaviour and life goals. Treatment of buprenorphine addiction should be carried out by specialists in a medical clinic. If a person takes buprenorphine treatment should begin as soon as possible. Early reaction of others to the problem will help to get rid of addiction and start life anew without artificial euphoria that threatens health.
Buprenorphine Addiction Treatment Prices (Cost)
| Rehabilitation (comprehensive buprenorphine addiction treatment) | from 27000 UAH per month |
| Inpatient buprenorphine addiction treatment | from 2700 UAH |
| Outpatient buprenorphine addiction treatment | from 2400 UAH |
| Home buprenorphine addiction treatment | 3700 UAH |
Therapies for buprenorphine dependence
An important component of treatment is psychological support and counselling aimed at understanding and changing the behavioural and psychological problems associated with buprenorphine use. This part of therapy may include individual or group sessions with a psychologist or drug counsellor.
Gradual dose reduction of buprenorphine is an effective method for relieving physical and psychological dependence. It should be carried out under medical supervision and specialist guidance.
For those who experience relapses or difficulties during buprenorphine withdrawal, relapse support is available. This may include returning to a stable dose of the drug and reviewing the therapeutic plan.
It is important to note that in the case of buprenorphine dependence, treatment should be supervised by a qualified medical professional. Consultation and supervision by a doctor at the HarMed Clinic will help determine the best treatment plan for each individual case.
